Introduction
In the political cartoon titled “School Begins,” which appeared in Puck Magazine on January 25, 1899, Uncle Sam, the personification of the United States, is shown as a teacher who is teaching “new subjects” to his “new scholars,” who are the recently annexed territories of Puerto Rico, Hawaii, Cuba, and the Philippines.
The artist, J.S. Pughe, combines symbolism, sarcasm, and exaggeration in the cartoon to express his ideas about American imperialism and how it has affected the United States and its newly conquered lands. This essay contends that a mix persuaded American expansionism of monetary, political, and philosophical intentions. In addition, how racial and social predispositions impacted it, and that it had critical ramifications for both the U.S. and the colonized people groups.
Symbols and Actions in the Political Cartoon
To portray their message, the cartoonist utilizes a variety of symbols and acts. Camouflaged as a teacher, Uncle Sam uses a stick embellished with the words “New Colonial Policy,” representing the U.S.’s new disposition to dominion. The classroom depicts the new territory that the United States has gained, and the pupils are the people who live in these regions.
The Philippines is shown as a youngster standing on a stool with a dunce cap on his head, implying that the U.S. considers them inferior. Puerto Rico is shown as a child sitting on a chair, head down and hat off, suggesting that they have lost their dignity and sovereignty. Cuba is shown as a little girl with pigtails, symbolizing their youth and vulnerability. Hawaii is shown as a youngster dressed in a Hawaiian shirt who appears joyful and carefree, oblivious of the doom that awaits him.
Historical Context from Primary and Secondary Sources
The cartoon’s historical setting is the period of American dominion, specifically the Spanish-American War of 1898, which prompted the securing of some extra territories by the United States. As per Barnes & Bowles (2015), the United States executed a new imperialist policy under the presidency of William McKinley, which brought about the U.S. procuring the Philippines, Guam, and Puerto Rico from Spain. Additionally, the U.S. created a protectorate over Cuba and annexed Hawaii. Economic factors, like the requirement for new business sectors and assets and the longing for status and power, were the main thrusts behind American imperialism.
Referenced Historical Events in the Cartoon
The cartoon has inferences to various authentic events, like the Spanish-American Conflict, Hawaii’s annexation, and the formation of protectorates over Cuba and Puerto Rico. The cartoon argues that the U.S. is abusing these regions and treating them more like subjects than allies. It also indicates that the United States is neglecting these regions’ sovereignty and rights while forcing its culture and ideals on them (Merriam, 1978).
Expansion of U.S. Power During the Period
The United States encountered obstacles and controversies as it gained land and expanded its influence beyond its continental limits. A portion of the critical occasions that were obvious at the turn of the century and demonstrated the improvement of American dominion was the extension of Hawaii, the Spanish-American War, and the accompanying securing of Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines (Barnes & Bowles, 2015). These occasions were set off by a perplexing blend of financial, political, and philosophical thought processes, like a longing for new business sectors, the quest for international targets, and the faith in American excellence.
Impact of American Imperialism Domestically and Abroad
American imperialism increased the country’s influence both domestically and abroad. The United States became an influential global power, exerting substantial global economic and military influence. However, American imperialism had a significant impact on the areas it occupied as well (Merriam, 1978). These regions experienced social injustice, political repression, cultural absorption, and economic exploitation. The illustration illustrates the harmful effects of American imperialism and criticizes American imperialist tactics.
Conclusion
In conclusion, “School Begins” is a political cartoon that strongly points against American imperialism in the late 19th century. The artist uses exaggeration, sarcasm, and symbolism to make their point and denounce the imperialist practices of the United States. The cartoon emphasizes the detrimental effects of American imperialism on recently gained lands by analogizing historical events like the Spanish-American War and the annexation of Hawaii. It is a superb illustration of how political cartoons may enhance our historical comprehension of how individuals in the past perceived and interpreted their environment.
References
Barnes, L. D., & Bowles, M. D. (2015). The American Story: Perspectives and Encounters from 1877. Bridgepoint Education.
Merriam, A. H. (1978). Racism in the Expansionist Controversy of 1898-1900. Phylon. Web.